Ohio

Security deposit timelines in Ohio

Your landlord generally has 30 days in Ohio to return your security deposit or provide an itemized written statement of deductions. DepositsBack.app helps you take the next step: a state-specific security deposit notice sent by USPS Certified Mail, with tracking that stays attached to your case. This page summarizes general information from Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16 and official state sources.

Ohio security deposit facts
General return deadline
30 days
After tenant moves out
Relevant statute
Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16
Cited in your DepositsBack.app notice
Penalty for non-compliance
Forfeiture of deductions + fees
May vary by case
Small-claims court limit
$6,000
Ohio Municipal Court Small Claims Division.

What DepositsBack.app helps with in Ohio

  • Free deadline check tied to Ohio’s 30-day rule
  • State-specific security deposit notice citing Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16, prepared and reviewed before mailing
  • USPS Certified Mail with tracking, acceptance, and delivery timestamps attached to your case
  • Response Center — paste their email/text/SMS or upload a photo of the letter; AI extracts the issues, amounts, and dates
  • Complete Case Bundle (included after delivery) with notices, mailing history, attorney handoff sheet, and official resources

Official Ohio resources

Frequently asked
Common questions about Ohio

The general deadline is 30 days. Landlords must return the security deposit or provide an itemized written statement of deductions within 30 days after the tenant vacates.

You may still be able to send a notice. We show general state information and official sources so you can review your situation and decide your next step.

The Complete Case Bundle includes your notices, USPS Certified Mail history, case summary, evidence checklist, attorney handoff sheet, and official state resources — all in one downloadable ZIP.

If the 30-day deadline passes without a return of your deposit or an itemized statement of deductions, your records — DepositsBack.app notice, USPS Certified Mail delivery confirmation, and any response uploaded to your case — document the timeline. Under Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16, a tenant may recover the amount wrongfully withheld plus an equal amount in damages and reasonable attorney fees; Ohio small-claims court generally hears disputes up to $6,000. You can review your situation alongside the statute and official state resources, and decide whether to consult an Ohio attorney or proceed with self-help next steps.

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